The newly released HomePod software 15.4.1 fixes Siri voice commands not working with some smart appliances that are compatible with Apple’s HomeKit platform.
HomePod update 15.4.1 makes Siri and HomeKit play nice
Some people, this author included, have been annoyed by Siri’s seeming inability to interact with accessories for the connected home such as smart lighting. Siri has been particularly ticking off one of iDB team members who for the love of God couldn’t get the assistant to understand basic HomeKit commands such as “Turn on the lights in the living room.” It appears that some other people may have encountered this issue too because Apple has released a fix for it specifically.
Available from March 31, 2022, the HomePod software 15.4.1 includes bug fixes for the HomePod and HomePod mini, as well as a fix for the above problem when some HomeKit accessories wouldn’t respond to Siri voice commands.
Other updates were released alongside HomePod software 15.4.1, including iOS and iPadOS 15.4.1, macOS Monterey 12.3.1, watchOS 8.5.1 and tvOS 15.4.1.
How to install HomePod software 15.4.1
You must use the Software Update feature within the Home app on your iPhone, iPad or Mac to check for, download and install new HomePod updates.
- Open the Home app on your iPhone, iPad or Mac
- Tap the icon resembling a home
- From the home menu, choose the option labeled “Home Settings”
- Choose “Software Update” from the list
The Home app will check for new HomePod updates. If it finds any, you’ll see details on this screen. After the HomePod update 15.4.1 has been downloaded, choose “Update” to deploy the new software across the HomePod speakers in your house.
HomePod updates may take some time to complete. You’ll see a white spinning light on the top of your speaker while the update is being installed. Whatever you do, make sure to avoid unplugging your HomePod while it’s updating or you may end up with a bricked speaker. Read: All the ways to invoke Siri on your Apple devices
What’s new in HomePod software 15.4.1
According to the official release notes accompanying hte updatae, HomePod software 15.4.1 includes unspecified bug fixes for your Siri speaker, as well as the aforementioned fix for Siri voice commands not working with some HomeKit devices.
The official changelog for HomePod software 15.4.1 only mentions the following:
Software version 15.4.1 addresses an issue where some HomeKit-enabled accessories could fail to respond when controlled via Siri. This update also includes bug fixes for your HomePod.
Apple’s support document provides information about all HomePod updates.